Slaying the Monster

Preperation for the 2019 FNB Megalies Monster
Interview with Team Pyga Euro Steel Pro-Cyclist, Phillimon Sebona

For our team, races like the Magalies Monster proves vital in the growth of our athletes. It also adds to their resumes and gives them the ability to test their form and performance before our bigger goals, such as the upcoming South African Marathon Championships at the end of June.

Sitting down and consulting with our athletes is vital for personal feedback and goal layout before an event, so we thought it would be wise to sit down with 2017 Magalies Monster victor, Phillimon Sebona and ask him ten questions about his season and the upcoming Magalies Monster.

Looking back at the past Sani2C, you and your teammate Pieter certainly achieved a massive milestone winning the final stage. Did this give you certainty about your form this season?
Yes, it gives me confidence that my form has improved since last season in which I first rode with Pieter.

Does the feeling of winning a stage or an overall race ever change for you?
Since my first race victory in 2007, every race victory since has given me the ambition to aim for more and achieve those goals. The feeling doesn’t change, but it adds to my drive for success in the upcoming races.

What is your biggest motivation going into an event like the Magalies Monster? Do previous races in this season affect this motivation and how?
To see improvement based on my previous years competing at the event. Coming out of a victory, it is always important to stay humble but to still know what you are capable of. At the Sani2c, I and Pieter overcame the conditions we faced, and this proved to me that it is possible to stand up after being knocked down.

It is clear that having the right sponsors in a pro-mountain bike team is vital to consistency in training and races. How do our partners help you in preparation for an event?
They understand that we are humans, not machines. We make mistakes, but they take into account who we are and that we can stand up after being shot down. No matter what.

Coming out of a final stage victory at the Sani2C, how did you adapt your preparation for the Monster?
Recovery was vital. I pushed very hard during the Sani and the most critical consideration going into a tough race like the Monster recovery means strength. I needed to keep my mental health high, as well as my physical health.

Looking back at 2018, what would you change at this year's race?
The thing that I will focus on the most, and buffered me last season was my tyre pressure.

You work at TRAILWOLF Cycles. How do you ensure that you recover during your day at work?
I am always on my feet, which means that I am not recovering as much as my teammates during the day. This means I have used the time away from work for my recovery. Sleep and hydration is essential.

How do you prepare the day before?
I try to drink as much water as I can, clearing out my body from toxins and lactic acid. I try and eat as healthy as possible. Carbs and Protein. Salads are also the right way of keeping the body clean and ready.

What about the FNB Magalies Monster makes you most excited?
It is a one-day event, but they treat you as if you were going to stay. It is challenging to leave the event.

What are your goals for the 2019 round of the Monster?
I want to slay the monster, and this means I will give my best to be in front of the race.

We are excited to be heading to ATKV Buffelspoort for the Magalies Monster, and we genuinely hope that both Phillimon and Pieter have a successful race tomorrow. 

To everyone else competing, good luck and enjoy the ride.